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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
07:30
Brain Morphology of Cannabis Users With or Without Psychosis: A Pilot MRI Study
Published on: August 18, 2020
Cannabis and mental health
Sergio Fernández-Artamendi1, José R Fernández-Hermida, Roberto Secades-Villa
1Grupo de Conductas Adictivas de la Universidad de Oviedo. uo165333@uniovi.es
Actas Espanolas De Psiquiatria
|May 12, 2011
Summary
Cannabis use is linked to increased risks of mental health issues, including psychotic and affective disorders, cognitive decline, and antisocial behavior, especially with early and frequent use.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug globally.
- Cannabis withdrawal symptoms are increasingly recognized despite not being formally classified.
- Existing research indicates a correlation between cannabis use and mental health disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific findings on the association between cannabis use and mental health.
- To highlight the risks associated with cannabis consumption.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific studies.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and research typifying withdrawal symptoms.
- Examination of factors influencing risk, such as age of first use and frequency.
Main Results:
- Cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of various mental disorders, including psychotic and affective spectrum disorders.
- Cognitive deterioration and antisocial behavior are linked to cannabis consumption.
- Early and frequent cannabis use, along with personal predispositions, increases these risks.
Conclusions:
- Despite research challenges, recent studies provide conclusive evidence of potential risks of cannabis use on mental health.
- Understanding these risks is crucial for public health initiatives and clinical practice.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex relationship between cannabis and mental well-being.
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